States lag on adopting federal environmental reforms
Only WA and NSW have formally agreed to take over environmental assessments under new federal reforms. A mid-2027 deadline is looming.
The federal government passed reforms in late 2025. These reforms give states and territories full power over environmental approvals.
Only Western Australia and New South Wales have signed agreements so far. The aim is to speed up approvals for housing, energy and minerals projects.
Minister Murray Watt says one government doing assessments will speed decisions. Environmental standards won't be lowered.
But most states have not agreed. So federal Labor set a mid-2027 deadline to reach agreement.
- late 2025
- Reforms passed
- mid-2027
- Agreement deadline
- WA and NSW
- States with signed agreements
- $45 million over four years
- Federal funding committed
Why it mattersFaster environmental approvals are crucial for Australia's housing supply and energy transition. State resistance could delay critical projects.
AustraliaSlow state adoption means housing, renewable energy and critical minerals projects could remain caught in lengthy approval processes, slowing Australia's housing and energy goals.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 7 d ago
